Process Options: How I Can Help

Family law issues may be resolved through a variety of different processes, and understanding the range of available options can help you to determine the best method for dealing with your particular situation. The information provided on this site is intended to help you get to know some of the process options for family dispute resolution.

When considering which approach would be best for you, you might ask yourself the following questions:

+ How much are my former partner and I capable of handling ourselves, and how much outside intervention is appropriate?
+ How actively do I want to be involved in the decision-making?
+ Do I feel safe talking to my former partner, either on my own or with someone else present?
+ Can I treat my former partner with respect even when we disagree?
+ Am I willing to listen to my former partner and consider his or her needs as well?
+ How much control do I want to have over the outcome? Would I feel comfortable letting someone else decide what is best for my family?
+ Am I focused on achieving a mutually acceptable settlement, or is my goal to “win”?

Your Options

Mediation is a voluntary process where a neutral third party assists the parties in negotiating a mutually acceptable agreement, which is then reviewed by lawyers and turned into a binding Separation Agreement.

Sometimes former spouses are able to reach an agreement directly, without outside involvement. Lawyers may still be necessary to ensure the agreement is made on an informed basis and will be legally binding.

For most couples, going to court is the last resort. However, it is sometimes necessary to turn to the courts to decide what should happen if the parties cannot reach an agreement or if there are safety concerns.